A Cervical Spine CT scan is an imaging test that allows the structures of the cervical region to be seen in great detail – especially the vertebrae and joints. It is very useful in the assessment of neck pain (cervicalgia), pain radiating to the arm, trauma, degenerative changes, and for surgical planning and post-operative follow-up.
What is a Cervical Spine CT Scan and what is it for?
A Cervical Spine CT scan is a computed tomography study focused on the cervical vertebrae (C1 to C7) and adjacent structures. It allows accurate assessment of:
- Vertebrae and alignment;
- Facet joints and bony structures;
- Changes that may contribute to nerve compression (for example, narrowing of the spinal canal or neural foramina).
It is particularly useful when a detailed evaluation of bone is required (for example, when a fracture is suspected), and in pre- and post-operative assessment.
What is the price of a Cervical Spine CT Scan?
The private price of a Cervical Spine CT scan is €120.
However, you may have a Cervical Spine CT scan through several agreements, including:
- SNS / ARS: When the Cervical Spine CT scan is performed through the SNS, the patient does not pay any amount (you must bring the prescription from the Health Centre);
- ADSE: If the Cervical Spine CT scan is performed through ADSE, the patient only pays the fee of €16;
- IASFA, ADM GNR, SAD PSP;
- Insurance providers: Médis, Multicare, Advance Care, Allianz, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, SS CGD, SAMS Quadros, SAMS, Montepio, RNA, Generali, Mudum, MGEN, Aegon, Vitória, Una Seguros, other insurers. In this case, the price varies depending on the insurance you use;
- Health plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, Continente Wells, ACP, other health plans. In this case, the price varies depending on the health plan you use;
- Protocols: NRD has protocols with several clinics and institutions that allow you to have the exam at very competitive rates. For the Cervical Spine CT scan, the protocol price is €80.
How is it performed?
A Cervical Spine CT scan is performed with the patient lying on a table (bed) that slides into the scanner. Thin slices of the cervical segment are obtained and, in some cases, multiplanar and 3D reconstructions may be performed, which are useful for planning and post-operative assessment.
On average, the exam takes 10 to 20 minutes.
NRD has a latest-generation Philips 128-slice scanner, which provides sharp images with a low radiation dose, ensuring safety and effectiveness in every exam.
What does it detect?
A Cervical Spine CT scan can help identify several changes, such as:
- Fractures and other post-traumatic injuries;
- Alignment abnormalities (for example, subluxations);
- Degenerative changes (osteoarthritis, osteophytes) and facet joint changes;
- Spinal canal stenosis and foraminal narrowing (which may cause nerve compression);
- Bony changes associated with calcified disc herniations;
- Post-operative changes (for example, assessment of surgical hardware);
- Bone lesions (tumours/metastases) and signs suggestive of infection, in the appropriate clinical context;
- Among others.
In which cases is it indicated?
A Cervical Spine CT scan is generally recommended by the doctor in situations such as:
- Trauma (fall, accident) with suspected fracture/cervical injury;
- Persistent neck pain requiring a more detailed assessment;
- Pain radiating to the shoulder/arm with suspected nerve compression;
- Suspected spinal canal stenosis or clinically relevant degenerative changes;
- Surgical planning and post-operative follow-up;
- Suspected tumours or vertebral infection (depending on the clinical scenario);
- Assessment of deformities and instability;
- Among others.
Cervical Spine CT Scan with Contrast
In most cases, a Cervical Spine CT scan is performed without contrast.
In selected situations (for example, suspected tumour, infection, or certain post-operative complications), iodinated intravenous contrast may be used.
The injection may cause a transient warm sensation or a metallic taste. When contrast is required, a 4-hour fast is generally requested (you will be informed at the time of booking).
Preparation for a Cervical Spine CT Scan
| Topic | Guidance |
| Exam prescription (paper copy) | You must bring the exam prescription in paper format. |
| Fasting | With contrast: 4-hour fast. Without contrast: generally, fasting is not necessary. |
| Arriving early | Generally, you only need to arrive 15 minutes before the exam. |
| Previous exams | Bring any relevant previous exams, if you have them. |
| Medical history and medication | Inform the team about allergies, asthma/allergic disease, kidney disease, thyroid disease, and your usual medication. |
| Metal objects | Remove metal objects in the head and neck area (for example, earrings, necklaces, piercings, hair clips). |
NRD will provide you with all instructions at the time of booking.
Instructions during the exam
To ensure the best image quality and that the exam is completed quickly, it is important to:
- Remain still during image acquisition to avoid artefacts in the images;
- Follow the technologist’s instructions, who may ask for small position adjustments and, when necessary, to hold your breath for a few seconds.
When and how do you receive the results?
You will receive the CT results within up to 7 days after the exam, by email or on paper at the clinic. On the day of the exam, you will take the CD with the images with you.
Where to have it done?
The Cervical Spine CT scan can be performed at NRD, at the following address:
Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, ground floor, 1070 – 060 Lisbon (near Praça de Espanha).